Tensions are escalating in Dokyi, a community in the Kwaebibirem Municipality of the Eastern region, as the chief and residents demand the immediate withdrawal of Elite Minerals Ghana Ltd over alleged environmental destruction and neglect.
At a press conference held in the town, the chief of Dokyi, Berima Ofosuhene Amoako Agyemang II, together with community members, accused the mining company of degrading farmlands and polluting water bodies since the start of its operations.
According to the chief, the activities of Elite Minerals Ghana Ltd have had severe consequences on livelihoods in the area, particularly for farmers who depend on the land and water for survival.
Berima Ofosuhene Amoako Agyemang II, chief, Dokyi
He further alleged that the company has failed to provide any meaningful social interventions to the community.
“Their operations have destroyed our water bodies and farmlands, yet they have not supported us with basic amenities such as schools, healthcare, roads, or potable water,” he stated.
The visibly aggrieved residents echoed these concerns, calling on the government and the Minerals Commission to intervene swiftly by halting the company’s operations.
Berima Ofosuhene Amoako Agyemang II issued a strong ultimatum, urging authorities to act, warning that failure to do so could compel the community to take matters into their own hands and forcibly shut down the company’s activities.
Meanwhile, management of Elite Minerals Ghana Ltd has strongly denied the allegations, describing them as misleading.
Speaking on behalf of the company, Field Operations Manager Agyemang Amanfo insisted that the company has undertaken several development projects in Dokyi as part of its corporate social responsibility.
Agyemang Amanfo, Field Operations Manager, Elite Minerals Ghana Ltd
He cited road upgrades within the community, the construction of a teachers’ bungalow, and the building of a shrine at the request of local elders as some of the interventions already completed.
He added that more projects are in the pipeline.
Mr. Amanfo called for calm and dialogue, urging community leaders and residents to engage the company constructively to resolve any concerns.
“We are open to discussions and peaceful engagement to address all issues. There is no need for confrontation,” he said.
The standoff highlights growing tensions between mining companies and host communities in parts of Ghana, where concerns over environmental degradation and equitable development continue to fuel disputes.
By Kwabena Ofori, Peace FM correspondent, Eastern Region.
